Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said an important stage in the creation of Transport Heritage NSW was reached tonight, with a clear majority of the NSW Rail Transport Museum members voting in support of the new era for rail heritage.

Ms Berejiklian said she was pleased that a clear majority of the museum members voted in favour of a fresh start, officially marking the creation of the new organisation Transport Heritage NSW.

Rail heritage operators across NSW will now work together to preserve and maintain important heritage assets for future generations, Ms Berejiklian said.

“The rail heritage industry has for so long wanted the opportunity to open up this sector to the community, and have a direct partnership with the NSW Government,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The establishment of Transport Heritage NSW now gives the industry that opportunity and I am optimistic about what this means for the future of rail heritage in NSW.

“Transport Heritage NSW provides an opportunity for a fresh start and a co-operative approach to rail heritage to help the industry realise its full potential and boost the contribution it can make to NSW. This new structure will support all of the hardworking volunteers who dedicate so much time to rail heritage in this state.”

Ms Berejiklian said the new organisation was committed to having the steam locomotive 3801 operating again in NSW, and returning it to service.

Transport Heritage NSW will manage the Trainworks museum at Thirlmere and work with other transport heritage organisations across the state to provide advice and assistance, and in some circumstances funding, for maintenance and preservation.

Transport Heritage will also oversee management of heritage rail precincts in NSW and facilities at Eveleigh, Broadmeadow and Chullora.